Rhubarb Fest 2025 is in full swing, and the “Men in Pink” trolley team is back to entertain and educate festivalgoers in Aledo. Among the lively crew: Denny Brown, a familiar voice and personality, and conductor John Swanson—yes, conductor, not driver.
“We tell the story of Aledo in a fun, funny way,” Swanson said with a grin. “It’s about history, but it’s also about making people smile.”
And for that, he’s got help from Denny Brown and Crystal Clark. “Most of what we tell them is true,” Denny admitted. “But every now and then, Crystal sneaks in something that might not be entirely accurate.”
The trolley experience offers more than just a ride—it’s a chance to hear the unique, colorful history of Aledo from the people who know it best. Riders don’t need a ticket, and the trolley loads from a new location this year—just behind Fells Standard Station, between the newly renovated Aledo Opera House and the Standard Station.
“There’s so much going on in our little old town,” Denny said. “The new Market Plaza is open, the construction’s done, the Opera House is alive again, and we’ve even got a new Aquatic Center. They even named a dog park in Savannah, Georgia, after our Bark Park!”
The tour also touches on exciting developments like Monument Park, the Aledo Family Crisis Center, and the recently announced new BankORION location—not to mention community staples like Smith’s Meat Market.
Crystal Clark summed up the spirit of the day: “It’s a joy to share our hometown with visitors, but it’s just as fun for locals to hop on and learn something new about the place we all call home.”
Be sure to catch a ride during Rhubarb Fest 2025—only in Aledo, Illinois.